Saturday, 10 June 2017

How to Change Your Sleep Patterns - Guest Post

Getting a great night’s sleep is something we all want and need. Yet for many, a consistent sleep schedule is something that seems out of reach. Since I struggled with my own sleeping patterns in the past, I decided to share the techniques I found to be most helpful. After all, who couldn’t use more sleep?

Best Techniques to Help You Change Your Sleep Patterns

Nothing is worse than finally getting into bed preparing for your night’s rest, only to find the annoyance of once again lying awake at night. When you are in that annoyed state, counting sheep, no longer feeling tired, you’re desperate for anything to help you get to sleep.

Luckily, there are certain measures you can take to help you get to sleep faster. First and foremost, you should put away your electronics at least one hour before you get some shut eye. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the glow put off by our phones, laptops, TVs, and other electronic devices can disrupt our natural sleep cycle. Turning off your electronics an hour before you go to bed can allow your brain to realize it’s time to rest.

Furthermore, getting to bed and waking up on a set schedule each day can improve your sleep cycle tremendously. According to Healthy Sleep, maintaining a sleep schedule, even on the weekends or holidays, will enable you to train your body into going to sleep on time each night.

What Else Can You Do?

Throughout your day, you should try to limit your caffeine intake, especially the later it gets. The last thing you want is a caffeine boost a couple of hours before bed. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself wired and active when you should really be winding down.

Another great tip is ensuring you get plenty of exercise. Exercise can tire out your mind and body, just so long as you don’t exercise too close to your bed time.

Naps are another issue which can disrupt your sleep cycle. If you do feel you need a nap during the day, try to limit your naptime to 20 minutes. The short nap will allow you to re-charge, without leaving you feeling groggy or disrupting your nightly sleep. Just be sure you don’t lay down for a nap too close to your scheduled sleep time.

The Good News?

Once you can regulate your schedule and truly stick to it, you will find that the benefits are more than worth it. Not only will you achieve higher quality sleep, you will notice your physical and emotional well-being improving as well.

The Final Word

So if you toss and turn like I used to do, it’s time to make a change for the better. Lose the electronics, regulate your schedule, and don’t intake caffeine too late into the day. Following these tips can help you get to sleep faster and enjoy your night’s rest. It will take time and effort, but it is truly worth it.

What techniques do you use to fall asleep at night? Let us know!

Bio: Sarah is the editor of sleepydeep.com. Feeling the repercussions of being an irregular sleeper for far too long, she decided to do something about it. She learned why sleep is so important and how to maximize it, and is now helping others who are struggling to find their right sleep routine.